Can you take a gun into Yellowstone National Park?

Carrying firearms in Yellowstone National Park is a topic that often raises confusion among visitors, especially given the park’s location across multiple states and its status as a federally managed area. The short answer is that firearms are allowed in Yellowstone National Park under specific conditions, but there are strict regulations regarding how and where they can be carried, and even more importantly, how they can—or cannot—be used.

Quick Reference Guide: Firearms in Yellowstone National Park

Category	Details
General Rule	Firearms are allowed in Yellowstone National Park as long as visitors comply with federal, state, and local laws. However, the use or discharge of firearms within park boundaries is strictly prohibited.
Open Carry & Concealed Carry	Visitors may openly carry or possess a firearm if it is legal under the state laws of Wyoming, Montana, or Idaho — the three states that Yellowstone spans. Concealed carry is allowed only for those with a valid state permit that is recognized in those states.
Federal Buildings & Restricted Areas	Firearms are not permitted inside federal facilities such as visitor centers, ranger stations, and government offices. These areas are clearly marked with “Firearms Prohibited” signs at all entrances.
Use of Firearms	Discharging or using a firearm within the park — including for self-defense against wildlife — is illegal. Yellowstone has strict wildlife protection laws, and defensive measures should rely on bear spray and park safety protocols instead.
Transporting Firearms	Firearms must be unloaded and securely stored while in vehicles or campsites unless state law allows otherwise. Ammunition should be kept separate from the firearm during transport.
Hunting Regulations	Hunting is not allowed anywhere within Yellowstone National Park. All wildlife is federally protected, and violations can result in severe fines, confiscation, or imprisonment.
Firearms for Protection	While carrying a firearm is legal under certain conditions, it should be viewed strictly as a last resort. Park officials strongly advise visitors to carry bear spray, stay alert, and follow wildlife safety practices.
Legal Jurisdictions	Yellowstone crosses Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, and each state has its own firearm laws. Visitors are responsible for knowing and complying with these laws before entering the park.
Penalties for Violations	Firearms misuse, discharge, or possession in restricted areas can result in heavy fines, federal charges, and possible imprisonment under National Park Service regulations.
Key Advice for Visitors	Always check the National Park Service (NPS) website or visitor center for the latest firearm regulations. Laws can vary depending on location within the park and state jurisdiction.

State Firearm Laws Within Yellowstone National Park

State	Firearm Law Overview	Concealed Carry Rules
Wyoming	Wyoming is a permitless carry state for both residents and non-residents. Firearms may be openly carried without a license.	Concealed carry without a permit is allowed for anyone 21 or older who can legally possess a firearm.
Montana	Montana allows open carry without a permit in most public areas.	Concealed carry without a permit is allowed for anyone legally permitted to own a gun; permits are still recognized for reciprocity.
Idaho	Idaho permits open carry and allows permitless concealed carry for U.S. citizens or active military aged 18 and older.	Idaho recognizes concealed carry reciprocity with many other states.

 

Federal law allows individuals who can legally possess firearms under applicable federal, state, and local laws to carry them within national parks, including Yellowstone. This policy went into effect in 2010, aligning the rules with the laws of the states where the park is located—Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. However, this does not mean that visitors have complete freedom to use or carry guns in any manner they wish. The key distinction lies in the fact that while carrying a firearm may be legal, discharging it within the park is not. Federal regulations strictly prohibit the use of firearms or any weapon within Yellowstone except in cases of extreme emergency, such as self-defense against an imminent threat to life.

It’s important to remember that Yellowstone is a protected natural area, home to diverse wildlife and fragile ecosystems. Shooting or hunting within the park boundaries is entirely illegal. This protection is part of what makes Yellowstone a safe sanctuary for animals and a peaceful destination for visitors. Violating firearm discharge laws can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines, confiscation of the weapon, and even imprisonment.

Visitors who choose to carry firearms must also consider the state-specific laws that apply within different parts of Yellowstone. Since the park spans across three states, regulations can vary slightly depending on where you are. For example, state laws govern the open carry and concealed carry of firearms, and permits issued by one state may not automatically be valid in another. Therefore, travelers should familiarize themselves with the gun laws of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho before entering the park to ensure full compliance.

Another important point concerns federal facilities within the park. Even if you are lawfully carrying a firearm elsewhere in Yellowstone, you are prohibited from bringing it into any federal building. This includes visitor centers, ranger stations, museums, and administrative offices. These facilities are clearly marked with signs at their entrances to remind visitors of the restriction. The ban also extends to certain employee housing areas and maintenance buildings.

In practice, most visitors do not need to carry firearms while exploring Yellowstone. The park’s rangers and law enforcement personnel are trained and equipped to handle safety and emergency situations. For protection from wildlife, such as bears, the National Park Service strongly recommends carrying bear spray instead of a gun. Bear spray has been proven to be more effective at deterring aggressive bears without causing long-term harm to animals or putting human life at greater risk.

Visitors should also take note of proper firearm storage. If you are camping or staying in a lodge within the park, it’s essential to store guns securely and out of reach of children or other guests. Discretion and safety are vital, especially in shared campgrounds or public facilities. Firearms should not be displayed or handled unnecessarily, as this can alarm other visitors and potentially lead to law enforcement intervention.

In conclusion, while it is legal to bring a gun into Yellowstone National Park if you comply with all federal, state, and local laws, the park’s mission of conservation and safety makes the responsible handling and storage of firearms an absolute priority. You cannot use or discharge your weapon within park boundaries, nor can you carry it into federal buildings. The emphasis in Yellowstone remains on safety, respect for wildlife, and the protection of its serene natural environment. For most visitors, following park guidelines, carrying bear spray, and exercising common sense offer all the protection they need while enjoying this remarkable wilderness.